The International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is preparing to celebrate the 100th birth anniversaries of four legendary figures in Indian cinema. The festival will pay tribute to actor-director Raj Kapoor, director Tapan Sinha, Telugu film star Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR), and renowned singer Mohammed Rafi.
In its 55th edition, the festival will showcase restored versions of notable films from these legends, including Kapoor’s ‘Awaara’, Sinha’s ‘Harmonium’, ANR’s ‘Devadasu’, and ‘Hum Dono’, featuring Rafi’s timeless vocals. The restoration has been carried out by the National Film Development Corporation and the National Film Archive of India to restore these classics to their original visual quality.
IFFI will dedicate specific celebration days for each artist, with ANR’s tribute on November 22, Kapoor’s on November 24, Rafi’s on November 26, and Sinha’s on November 27.
The festival program will feature panel discussions with industry figures and family members, providing insights into the contributions of these artists to Indian cinema. A curated exhibition will showcase rare photographs and memorabilia, while Sudarshan Pattnaik will create a sand art installation at Kala Academy.
Music will also play a significant role, with a “Caravan of Songs” featuring 150 tracks by Kapoor and Rafi, along with 75 songs associated with Sinha and ANR. IFFI will also issue commemorative stamps and bilingual brochures highlighting each icon’s career.
The festival’s Entertainment Arena will host themed activities and digital displays focusing on the contributions of each artist to Indian cinema. These celebrations aim to highlight the cultural significance of these figures for contemporary audiences while preserving their legacies for future generations.
IFFI will take place from November 20 to 28, running concurrently with Film Bazaar, South Asia’s leading film market, from November 20 to 24.
Lim/SR